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Classic
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page 274
DOMESTICS.
Hints on the Management of Domestics.
SOME families are always changing their domestics, and weary their friends with
complaints of those they have, and inquiries for others.
Deliberate before you make a change; if servants are honest, speak the truth,
and have an obliging disposition, it is better to bear with a few defects, than
to discharge them; these are qualifications for the foundation of a good
servant; and some of the most valuable I have had, were such as could hardly be
put up with at first. By being patient, and speaking to them in a kind manner,
they become attached and fearful of doing any thing to offend.
When they break any thing, or an accident occurs, accustom them to inform you of
it immediately. Few mistresses, of well regulated minds, will be offended when
openly told of accidents; but if they are left to be found out, you always feel
more disposed to blame and reprove them. By speaking to them in a mild and
forgiving manner, careless servants will become more careful.
A considerate mistress may, without loss of dignity, make them feel that she
regards it as her duty to be their friend, and that she feels herself under an
obligation to advise them in difficulties and promote their comfort.
We should reflect that theirs is a life of servitude, and if they over-exert
themselves, or are too much exposed in early life, it will bring on disease that
will shorten their days, or render old age a burden.
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